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The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Leslie Heaney
86 episodes
3 days ago
The Interview with Leslie Heaney is a podcast that features interviews with experts and thought leaders in everything from fashion and the arts to policy, the law, business, medicine and science. If a topic is relevant and compelling, it is covered on The Interview. Host Leslie Heaney is excited to share these compelling stories with you. You’ll leave feeling inspired, having learnt something new, and having shared a few laughs along the way.
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All content for The Interview with Leslie Heaney is the property of Leslie Heaney and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
The Interview with Leslie Heaney is a podcast that features interviews with experts and thought leaders in everything from fashion and the arts to policy, the law, business, medicine and science. If a topic is relevant and compelling, it is covered on The Interview. Host Leslie Heaney is excited to share these compelling stories with you. You’ll leave feeling inspired, having learnt something new, and having shared a few laughs along the way.
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Leisure
Episodes (20/86)
The Interview with Leslie Heaney
East Hampton and Beyond - feat. Sarah Wetenhall

This week on The Interview with Leslie Heaney, we’re traveling back to the sandy shores of Long Island with Sarah Wetenhall, a life-long summer resident in and around East Hampton and the co-owner and CEO of The Hedges Inn in East Hampton and The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach.


Back in 2016, Sarah and her husband Andrew, took over The Colony Hotel (an iconic hotel that had formerly been owned by her father-in-law) - blending the Colony’s timeless style with modern luxury, creating designer collaborations, resurrecting the celebrated Swifty’s restaurant, and curating experiences that keep guests coming back year after year.


Now, the Wetenhalls have brought that same philosophy to The Hedges Inn in East Hampton, transforming the historic 13-room inn into a boutique luxury escape. From private beach setups and partnerships with Volvo for guest transportation to menus inspired by local farm stands, Sarah is redefining what “full-service” means in the Hamptons.


In this episode, Sarah and I talk about everything from the renaissance of The Colony Hotel and now The Hedges under her and her husband’s ownership, to all of her favorite spots in and around East Hampton.   Our conversation covers all of Sarah’s favorite restaurants, spots for families, places to shop, amazing events in the area in the summer and fall and all of the incredible outdoor activities available from visiting one of the most beautiful beaches in America - Main Beach in East Hampton - to getting paddle board lessons from an adorable instructor!  


Whether you’re dreaming of a late summer or early fall getaway to East Hampton, or learning more about this female business leader who has revitalized two iconic hotels, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!


Stream it now! And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie


EPISODE SPONSORS:

Go to cozyearth.com and use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% off
best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.

Tenmile Distillery is home to the award-winning Little Rest Whisky -- All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.

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4 days ago
48 minutes 2 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Aspen Awaits - feat. Alicia Adams

EPISODE SPONSORS:

  • Cozy Earth: use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% off
    best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.
  • Tenmile Distillery: All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.

Our next stop in the Summer Travel Series takes us to the Rockies for a deep dive into one of Colorado’s most glamorous and adventure-filled destinations: Aspen, CO.


Joining me is my good friend, resident, entrepreneur, and founder of Alicia Adams Alpaca, Alicia Adams—whose luxurious alpaca pieces are just as warm and beautiful as she is.

From sipping coffee at a café with “New York water” bagels to hiking breathtaking trails like American Lake and Smuggler, Alicia shares the best ways to experience Aspen year-round. Alicia reveals her favorite places to stay, from iconic spots like The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome to charming boutique hotels, and talks about the outdoor adventures that make Aspen so special, including paddle boarding on Stillwater, mountain biking, fly fishing, and the must-do Wednesday night rodeo in Snowmass.


This episode covers Aspen’s incredible food and drink scene, from cozy breakfasts and sushi with a view to insider cocktail spots, along with the best places to shop, like cowboy boots and hats at Kemo Sabe or unique finds at Carl’s Pharmacy.


Alicia even gives us a taste of Aspen’s cultural side, with music festivals, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the peaceful John Denver Sanctuary.


Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a winter ski trip, this episode is your backstage pass to experiencing Aspen like a local.


And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie


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1 week ago
44 minutes 50 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
JAWS at 50 - feat. Wendy Benchley

It’s hard to believe this summer marks the 50th anniversary of Jaws—the film that launched the summer blockbuster, introduced a then-unknown Steven Spielberg, and forever changed the way we look at the ocean… and for some of us, even swimming pools!


Beyond the suspense, the unforgettable score, and one of the best movie lines of all time—“You’re gonna need a bigger boat”—Jaws had some unintended side effects. It fueled a global fear of sharks, spiked shark tournaments, and contributed to decades of overfishing.


Today, I’m so excited to welcome someone who’s been there since the beginning—Wendy Benchley, widow of Jaws author Peter Benchley. From the writing of the book to the movie’s smashing box-office success, Wendy had a front-row seat. She has since dedicated her life to shark advocacy and ocean conservation.


Wendy is a world-renowned environmentalist, co-founder of the Peter Benchey Ocean Awards, board member of WildAid, and a Co-Executive Producer of Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story – a brand-new documentary diving into the film’s legacy.


Wendy and I talk about the powerful legacy of Jaws - not only as a film - but more importantly as a vehicle that has shown light on sharks and why they are such a critical part of our ocean’s ecosystem - one that must be advocated for and protected. Thanks in large part to her work, shark fin soup consumption in China is down an estimated 70–80%. The United Nations is now considering a resolution to protect marine life from overfishing on the high seas.


Wendy is brilliant, passionate, and a true force for change. Whether you’re a Jaws fan or simply care about the future of our oceans, this is a conversation—and a documentary—you won’t want to miss.


And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie

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2 weeks ago
51 minutes 41 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Journey to Jackson Hole - feat. Lela Rose

EPISODE SPONSORS:

  • Corroon: Beautiful things for the well- traveled - Interview listeners get 20% off with the code "theinterview"
  • Tenmile Distillery: Award-winning whisky - Interview listeners get 10% off with the code "THEINTERVIEW"


Our Summer Travel Series continues this week with a stop in one of the most beautiful places in the country: Jackson Hole, Wyoming. And who better to guide us through it than Lela Rose — the iconic American fashion designer who somehow makes fly fishing, glamping, and entertaining look impossibly chic.


In this conversation, Lela shares how she got started in the fashion world and how her creative life has evolved to include the Lela Rose Ranch, an old log cabin-turned-boutique in Wilson, WY, and two books on entertaining: Prêt-a-Party and Fresh Air Affairs.


We talk about what to pack for a trip to Jackson, where to stay, her favorite local hikes, the best place to dine outdoors, and who to call if you want to try your hand at fly fishing. (She even sleeps outside every night in her own glamping tent — #goals.)


Lela is a living, breathing reminder that creativity has no limits. Her love of vintage Western wear, her eye for beautiful design, and her zest for outdoor living all come together to paint a vivid picture of what life can look like when you blend style with nature.


She’s a modern-day superwoman with an infectious spirit, and by the end of our talk, I was ready to book a flight and show up on her porch. This is truly one of the most joyful and inspiring episodes yet — I hope you’ll come along for the ride.


Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie

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2 weeks ago
1 hour 1 minute 4 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Exploring the Hamptons - feat. Joey Wölffer

EPISODE SPONSOR: Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off all orders


This week on The Interview, we continue our Summer Travel Series with a sun-soaked stop in the Hamptons—home to ocean breezes, classic Americana, and the ever-iconic Wölffer Estate Vineyard.


I’m joined by the remarkable Joey Wölffer—entrepreneur, designer, equestrian, Co-Owner and Chief Brand Officer of Wölffer Estate.


Together with her brother Marc, husband Max Rohn, and winemaker Roman Roth, Joey took over the family business in 2013, launching the now-famous Summer in a Bottle Rosé—a Hamptons essential that sells out each year and has become the fastest-growing rosé in NYC.


In this episode, Joey shares what makes this corner of the world so magical—from sunset cocktails at the vineyard to her favorite restaurants, stores and beaches. We also talk about the amazing wines and work of Wölffer Estate Vineyard, meeting her husband on the train out to the Hamptons, balancing motherhood with all else that she does, and all of the wonderful and special things about this area of the world where she grew up spending her summers. Joey is self-deprecating, funny and smart - her love and knowledge of this part of the world shines through every part of our conversation.


Whether you’re planning a trip to the Hamptons or just daydreaming of drinks at her vineyard or perfect beach sunsets, you’ll want to hit play on this episode.


Stream the episode now wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram ⁠@TheInterviewWithLeslie⁠

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3 weeks ago
40 minutes 59 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Ketamine Therapy: All You Need to Know - feat. Eric Stoneberg and Anisa Stechert

EPISODE SPONSOR: Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off all orders


I’m briefly pausing my “Summer Travel Series” to explore a topic that’s gaining national attention: ketamine and ketamine therapy.


You may have heard ketamine mentioned in the news—whether in connection with the death of Friends actor Matthew Perry, or Elon Musk publicly endorsing it. But beyond the headlines, there’s an emerging body of evidence showing that, when used therapeutically, ketamine can be life-changing for those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or alcohol use disorder.


On a more personal note, I’ve had several friends undergo ketamine therapy with remarkable results. Their experiences sparked my curiosity and led me to explore this cutting-edge treatment in greater depth.


That curiosity brought me to Nushama, a licensed ketamine therapy clinic in midtown Manhattan, where I sat down with two seasoned psychedelic psychotherapists: Eric Stoneberg and Anisa Stechert.


Between them, they’ve treated thousands of patients—ranging from 9/11 first responders and veterans to teenagers battling eating disorders and adults living with anxiety.


In this episode, we cover it all: what ketamine is, which conditions it treats (including some powerful patient stories), how it rewires trauma in the brain, who qualifies as a candidate, and what a typical experience looks like at a clinic like Nushama.


Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, I invite you to listen with an open mind. This conversation sheds light on a promising new tool in the mental health toolbox—one that could transform the way we approach healing.


Stream the episode now wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie

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3 weeks ago
55 minutes 31 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
A Newport Summer - feat. Nick Mele

EPISODE SPONSORS:

  • Cozy Earth: Use code "INTERVIEW" for 40% off all orders
  • Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off all orders


We are finishing off this week with a conversation with renowned photographer and co-author of the acclaimed book, A Newport Summer, Nick Mele.


Regarded as the Slim Aarons of our time, Nick is a summer resident of Newport. As someone who also spends time in the summer in Newport, I loved comparing notes with Nick about all of his favorite secret spots.


Nick and I cover everything from walks, beaches, restaurants, places for cocktails, and all of the fantastic activities you can only do in Newport - from visiting Gilded Age Mansions to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, to coffee on mansion lawns on Sundays, to kayaking in the harbor to hear the Newport Folk Festival. 


Nick and I spent so much time discussing his impressive career before we got to our talk about Newport that I have decided to release that part of the conversation—about Nick’s work and career—later this summer.  But in the meantime, here is Nick sharing all of his insider tips on one of the all-time greatest summer towns - Newport!


Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now!

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1 month ago
33 minutes 18 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
A Summer Guide to Nantucket - feat. Ashley McCormick

EPISODE SPONSORS:

  • Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off your order
  • Cozy Earth: Use code "INTERVIEW" for 40% off your order



I am very excited to bring you my third installment of this summer series. Today, we are featuring one of the world's favorite islands, Nantucket. 


Ashley McCormick, founder & CEO of the lifestyle brand ASHA, who is a life-long summer resident of Nantucket and who just opened a new ASHA store there this summer, is going to share with us all of her favorite spots to visit. 


In this episode, we discuss her favorite restaurants, places for lunch, coffee, and cocktails, great outings for kids, and her top picks for places to stay.


We also share her favorite beach - keep it between us since she's afraid it will get discovered and become too crowded - but it's Ladies! 


ASHA is also a sponsor of Nantucket by Design, so if you're in Nantucket now or planning a visit this week, be sure to buy tickets! 


Our conversation made me want to jump on the next ferry!  After listening to this, you'll be right there with me!


Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now!

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1 month ago
35 minutes 58 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Exploring the Hudson Valley - feat. Lidey Heuck

Episode Sponsors:

  • Tenmile Distillery: All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.
  • Cozy Earth: use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% off
    best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.


I'm so excited to share the latest installment in my Summer Travel Series—this time, we’re heading to one of my absolute favorite parts of the country: the Hudson Valley.


My guest is the charming, witty, and incredibly talented Lidey Heuck—author of the hit cookbook Cooking in Real Life and a food writer for The New York Times.


Lidey lives in the Hudson Valley with her young family and shares recipes, stories, and seasonal inspiration through her blog Lidey Likes and her Substack newsletter Lidey Letter.


Lidey’s culinary journey began with none other than Ina Garten (yes, we talk about Jeffrey!), and since then, she’s established herself as a trusted voice in home cooking, known for recipes that are accessible and beyond delicious.


Her debut cookbook, which came out this spring is one of my all-time favorites!


In our conversation, we talk about her thoughtful approach to recipe writing, how she fell in love with the Hudson Valley, and even a few cautionary foraging tales.


Naturally, we also dive into her favorite local spots—from antique stores and farmers markets to swimming holes and must-visit restaurants.


As a former Hudson Valley resident myself, it was such a joy to compare notes and swap recommendations on the spots that make the region so special. We also highlight a few standouts in nearby Litchfield County and the Berkshires.


Whether you’re planning a trip or just love dreaming about charming getaways, this one’s for you.


Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now!

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1 month ago
47 minutes 3 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Land Between The Rivers: Iraq Then and Now - feat. Bartle Bull

This episode is brought to you by: Tenmile Distillery

All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.

--------------------

Acclaimed by critics, Land Between the Rivers: A 5,000-Year History of Iraq offers a sweeping chronicle of the region often called the cradle of civilization - a vital crossroads between East and West. Its author, Bartle Bull, draws on his experience as a freelance reporter during the Iraq War in the early 2000s.


Risking their own safety, courageous Iraqis sheltered Bartle, enabling him to report from the front lines for outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Financial Times. As a tribute to these remarkable individuals, Bartle penned this extraordinary book, illuminating Iraq’s pivotal role in world history.


In this episode, Bartle and I journey through the ages: from the ancient world of Mesopotamia and the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, to the creation of modern Iraq after World War I, the 1958 assassination of the Iraqi royal family, the rise of Sadam Hussein and the complexities of Iraq’s political landscape today.


We delve into the dangers he faced as a war correspondent, examine the diverse ethnic and religious groups of Iraq and Iran, and discuss the region’s enduring conflicts.


As the Middle East continues to grapple with conflict and change, Bartle examines Iraq’s past and present, revealing how history shapes the realities of today.


Bartle’s depth of knowledge and storytelling are truly captivating. I learned so much from this conversation, and I’m sure you will, too.


For history lovers or those who want to learn more about this very important part of the world, this episode is for you!


Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now!

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1 month ago
1 hour 16 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
From Napa with Love - feat. Alexis Swanson Traina

I hope you all had a great July 4th weekend. We are kicking off July with what I'm calling a summer series. I've asked insiders in certain summer communities to share their favorite secret spots and recommendations for places to stay, eat, and things to do.


Who better to kick it off with than my wonderful friend Alexis Swanson Traina - back for her second time on the podcast to share all of her favorite spots from her hometown of Napa Valley, California.


Alexis is not only the Founder of the modern communication app Hinote, but she is also the author of "From Napa with Love," a beautiful book that highlights all the amazing and magical people and spots in Napa. 


In this episode, Alexis and I discuss the towns of Napa, its wineries, her own love affair with Napa, and all the must-see places to visit, stay, and eat.  Whether you're planning a trip to Napa this summer or fall or just love to learn about this very special spot in our country - this is a great episode you won't want to miss!  


EPISODE SPONSORS:

  • Tenmile Distillery- use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout for 10% off all orders
  • Cozy Earth - use code INTERVIEW for 40% off all orders
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1 month ago
47 minutes 16 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
The Gilded Age in Newport - feat. Trudy Coxe

This past Sunday, June 22nd was the Season 3 Premiere of HBO's hit series, The Gilded Age. Part of the success of this show is the viewing audience's fascination of this time period -  a time of rapid change and immense wealth in the United States - and the grand mansions of the time located in Newport, Rhode Island.


I thought my listeners would be interested in going behind the scenes - to learn more about this time of great change, wealth, power and drama in American History - and who better to give us a view into this world and history, than Trudy Coxe, the CEO and Executive Director of the Preservation Society of Newport County.


In this episode, Trudy and I talk about the "Gilded Age" - this time of transformation following the Civil War where the railroads, oil, banking, created the Robber Barons and the rise of families like the Vanderbilts, Goulds, Astors.  


We explore the similarities between the show and real like characters - for example, Bertha Russell and Alva Vanderbilt and how the show's creator, Julian Fellowes, went to great lengths to make certain that he was getting the historical details of the time correct.  Importantly, Fellowes engaged historians to ensure that the story of the rise of elite Black Americans during this time were being accurately portrayed through his character Peggy Scott.
We also examine about the role of immigrants in this society, the architecture of these grand homes, the culture of religious freedom in Newport and the broader economy at the time. While we talk about the rise of these families and great wealth in America at the time, we also explore the fall of the Gilded Age and these grand summer cottages and the creation of the Preservation Society and its importance in maintaining these homes and in it this important period of American history.


For lovers of history, Newport or the Gilded Age, this episode is for you!  
And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode.

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1 month ago
58 minutes 23 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Every Body is a Swimsuit Body - feat. Joyann King Michael and Chrissy McCurdy

THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: ⁠⁠TENMILE DISTILLERY ⁠⁠

All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout. ⁠⁠Click here to learn more⁠⁠.

-------------------------------------

In Today’s Episode: Meet the Women Redefining Swimwear and Shapewear


In this episode, I sit down with two dear friends and former neighbors from Millbrook—Joyann King Michael and Chrissy McCurdy—two of the three powerhouse founders behind Stylest, the brand transforming the swimwear and shapewear space.


Stylest was born from a poolside wardrobe malfunction and has since evolved into a patented, best-in-class solution for women everywhere. Their signature DreamSculpt bras for swim, flattering suits, and effortlessly chic coverups have earned praise from Harper’s Bazaar to Oprah Daily—yes, Oprah really can’t live without them. Stylest is helping women everywhere feel like their best selves—because every body is a swimsuit body.


In our conversation, we talk about building a company from scratch, juggling work and growing families, and redefining what it means to feel confident in your own skin. Joyann and Chrissy are smart, funny, and making things happen.


This is an episode for the dreamers, the builders, and anyone who’s ever felt uneasy about swimsuit season. Stream it now! 


And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode.

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2 months ago
52 minutes 56 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
[Part 2] Alzheimer’s and Brain Health - feat. Dr. Kellyann Niotis

THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: ⁠TENMILE DISTILLERY ⁠

In honor of Father’s Day, all Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout. ⁠Click here to learn more⁠.

-------------------------------------

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to sit down with expert preventative neurologist Dr. Kellyann Niotis.


Dr. Niotis is the Director of Parkinson's and Lew Body Dementia at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases. She is the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologist specializing in risk reduction strategies for neurodegenerative disorders. She managed the first Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medical Center.


We often hear about how little can be done once a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Lew Body Dementia, or Parkinson's to reverse the progression of the disease. What is so exciting about my conversation with Dr. Niotis is that we talk about ways that we can scientifically reduce our risk of developing Alzheimer's, Lew Body, and Parkinson’s. My conversation with Dr. Niotis was so in-depth that I have divided this episode into two parts!


Part 1 covered statistics on these diseases, as well as the reasons for their rise, symptoms that appear YEARS before diagnosis, and genetic testing - including who is a candidate and the pros and cons of undergoing these tests.


In this episode (Part 2), we talk about all of the modifiable risk factors for dementia, from monitoring your cholesterol levels to having your hearing checked to getting the shingles vaccine. It was such an eye-opening and empowering conversation.


This subject is a personal one for me having my mother-in-law having dementia before she died. After this episode, I hope you, like me, will feel like you have all of the knowledge and tools to reduce and reverse your risk of developing these diseases.


This is a must-listen episode! And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram ⁠@⁠⁠TheInterviewWithLeslie⁠ and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode.

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2 months ago
49 minutes 52 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
[Part 1] Alzheimer’s and Brain Health - feat. Dr. Kellyann Niotis

THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: TENMILE DISTILLERY

In honor of Father’s Day, all Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout. Click here to learn more.

-------------------------------------

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to sit down with expert preventative neurologist Dr. Kellyann Niotis.


Dr. Niotis is the Director of Parkinson's and Lew Body Dementia at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases. She is the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologist specializing in risk reduction strategies for neurodegenerative disorders. She managed the first Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medical Center.


We often hear about how little can be done once a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Lew Body Dementia, or Parkinson's to reverse the progression of the disease. What is so exciting about my conversation with Dr. Niotis is that we talk about ways that we can scientifically reduce our risk of developing Alzheimer's, Lew Body, and Parkinson’s. My conversation with Dr. Niotis was so in-depth that I have divided this episode into two parts!


Part 1, released today, will cover statistics on these diseases, as well as the reasons for their rise, symptoms that appear YEARS before diagnosis, and genetic testing - including who is a candidate and the pros and cons of undergoing these tests.


In Part 2, we talk about all of the modifiable risk factors for dementia, from monitoring your cholesterol levels to having your hearing checked to getting the shingles vaccine. It was such an eye-opening and empowering conversation.


This subject is a personal one for me having my mother-in-law having dementia before she died. After this episode, I hope you, like me, will feel like you have all of the knowledge and tools to reduce and reverse your risk of developing these diseases.


This is a must-listen episode! And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode.

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2 months ago
48 minutes 6 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
Discover Your Hidden Genius - feat. Betsy Wills

I’m so excited to be back after my six-week break that was filled with parents’ weekends, school plays, crew races—and our daughter’s high school graduation!

And I promise, this next episode was worth the wait.


This week on The Interview, I sit down with Betsy Wills—co-founder of YouScience and author of Your Hidden Genius. Whether you’re reentering the workforce, feeling professionally unfulfilled, or graduating and unsure of your next steps, this conversation is for you.


Betsy shares how we can use science—specifically an aptitude-based assessment—to uncover our innate strengths, interests, and traits. We explore how understanding your natural talents is the first step toward finding both career success and personal fulfillment.


This episode is a powerful reminder that self-awareness is more than a buzzword—it’s the foundation for a meaningful life.


Your Hidden Genius is the perfect graduation gift for your high school or college-aged children, but it’s also a must-read for anyone at any stage of life. We all deserve to better understand ourselves and what we’re truly meant to do.


Don’t miss this one—it might just change how you see yourself.  Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.


And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode.

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2 months ago
47 minutes 47 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
[REVISIT] Choose Joy - feat. Kate Doerge

May is Neurofibromatosis (NF) Awareness Month. In honor of that, we are re-releasing a deeply moving episode that focuses on a truly incredible foundation—and the powerful story behind it.


Leslie sits down with Kate Doerge, founder of Penny’s Flight Foundation. Kate shares the powerful story of her daughter, Penny, who passed away in November 2022 from NF—the most common genetic disorder in children, and one that still has no cure.


In the wake of unimaginable loss, Kate, her husband Chad, and their community turned grief into action. They founded Penny’s Flight Foundation, a growing national movement dedicated to raising awareness and funding for NF research.


In this heartfelt conversation, Kate reflects on Penny’s joyful spirit, the mission of the foundation, and the boundless energy fueling efforts to find a cure. Her story is one of resilience, love, and the power of community.


Tune in and be inspired by the legacy of Penny and the incredible work being done in her name.


If you’re moved by this episode, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on your favorite platform. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie

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2 months ago
48 minutes 23 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
[REVISIT] American Heroes - feat. James Patterson and Tim Malloy

In anticipation of Memorial Day, we’re bringing back a powerful and timely conversation with two remarkable storytellers, James Patterson and Tim Malloy.


You know Patterson as one of the bestselling authors of all time, with over 425 million books sold and collaborations with names like Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton. You may know Malloy as a veteran investigative reporter and seven-time Emmy winner.


Together, they’ve created something truly meaningful: American Heroes—a tribute to real-life servicemen and women who have earned the Medal of Honor, Silver Star, and Distinguished Service Cross.


In this episode, Leslie speaks with Patterson and Malloy about the unforgettable stories in their book, the weight of military sacrifice, and why these acts of courage deserve our attention—especially now.


They also reflect on their work on Filthy Rich: The Shocking True Story of Jeffrey Epstein, how their careers began, and their shared passion for telling the stories that matter most.


Funny, thoughtful, and deeply moving—this is an episode that feels especially resonant as we honor those who’ve served. We’re honored to share it again with our listeners. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.


And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode.

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3 months ago
54 minutes 48 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
[REVISIT] I Loved You First - feat. Jenna Bush Hager

In honor of Mother’s Day this upcoming Sunday, we’re revisiting a conversation that celebrates the beautiful bond between parent and child. In this episode, Leslie sits down with the inspiring Jenna Bush Hager—author, journalist, and host of Today with Jenna & Friends.

A force in publishing and media, Jenna is the creator of the Read with Jenna Book Club, founder of the Thousand Voices imprint supporting emerging writers, and co-founder of her own production company.


Jenna and her twin sister Barbara recently co-authored their third book together, I Loved You First, a heartfelt children’s story that captures the magic of parenthood and the strength of sibling connection.


In this wide-ranging conversation, Jenna opens up about the inspiration behind the book, the power of sisterhood and female friendship, how it feels to host Today without her longtime co-host Hoda Kotb, and the mission behind her literary ventures. Plus, she and Leslie bond over their mutual love of karaoke!


Whether you’re a mom, a daughter, or someone who cherishes the women in your life, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.


If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie.

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3 months ago
36 minutes 34 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
[REVISIT] Mental Health Matters - feat. Corinne Catarozoli, Ph.D.

Tomorrow, May 1st, marks the beginning on Mental Health Awareness Month. In honor of that, we are bringing back one of our most impactful episodes: Mental Health Matters - feat. Corinne Catarozoli, Ph.D.


Dr. Corinne Catarozoli is a leader in pediatric integrated care at Weill Cornell Medicine. She specializes in evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges.


With expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and pediatric behavioral medicine, she shares practical insights on how parents can identify signs of mental illness early and seek the right kind of support.


In this episode, Leslie and Dr. Catarozoli explore:

  • The three most common mental health conditions affecting kids today

  • Early signs to look out for

  • How to access effective, evidence-based treatment options


Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this conversation is packed with valuable guidance and real-world advice.


Listen, take notes, and be part of the conversation. If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie.

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3 months ago
49 minutes 34 seconds

The Interview with Leslie Heaney
The Interview with Leslie Heaney is a podcast that features interviews with experts and thought leaders in everything from fashion and the arts to policy, the law, business, medicine and science. If a topic is relevant and compelling, it is covered on The Interview. Host Leslie Heaney is excited to share these compelling stories with you. You’ll leave feeling inspired, having learnt something new, and having shared a few laughs along the way.